St. Mirren Boss Stephen Robinson Blown Away by Ranger’s FC Star After 2-1 Defeat “I’ve Never Seen Anyone So Strong and Confident” He admitted In his post match interview

St. Mirren manager Stephen Robinson was left full of admiration for a Rangers star following his side’s narrow 2–1 defeat, admitting in his post match interview that he had rarely come up against a player of such physical dominance and self belief.

The Buddies pushed Rangers hard over 90 minutes, but ultimately left empty handed after a contest decided by moments of quality from the visitors. While Robinson was understandably disappointed with the result, his post match focus quickly turned to the individual brilliance that, in his view, made the difference on the night.

“I’ve never seen anyone so strong and confident,” Robinson said. “That’s not something you say lightly as a manager. You come up against a lot of top players in this league, but that was a level above. He dominated his area of the pitch and gave us problems from the first whistle to the last.”

Speaking in his post match interview, Robinson singled out the Belgian as the standout performer on the pitch, describing his display as decisive in swinging the contest in Rangers’ favour. While disappointed with the result, the St Mirren boss was keen to acknowledge the quality that ultimately separated the two sides.

“ Robinson admitted. “He dominated the middle of the pitch. When you come up against a player like that, you understand why teams like Rangers can control games even when they are not at their very best.”

Rangers edged the contest thanks to goals either side of half time, with St Mirren rallying late on to give the visitors a nervous finish. However, much of the match was dictated by Raskin’s influence in midfield, as he broke up play, drove his team forward and imposed himself physically on every duel.

From the opening exchanges, Raskin set the tone. He snapped into tackles, demanded the ball under pressure and repeatedly shielded possession with a maturity that belied the intensity of the occasion. His ability to combine power with calm decision making frustrated St Mirren’s midfield, who struggled to gain any sustained control.

Robinson felt that Raskin’s presence changed the dynamic of the game entirely. “We had a plan and I thought we executed parts of it well,” he said. “But when you have someone who can just brush challenges aside, win second balls and still pick the right pass, it becomes incredibly difficult. He gives Rangers a platform to play from.”

Rangers manager Philippe Clement also praised his midfielder, highlighting his growing importance to the side. Since returning to full fitness, Raskin has become a central figure in Rangers’ push for consistency, providing balance and leadership in the heart of the team.

“He was outstanding,” Clement said. “Not just in his physicality, but in his understanding of the game. He reads situations early and that allows us to control tempo. This is what we want from him week after week

The match itself was a competitive affair, with St Mirren showing resilience and attacking intent, particularly in the closing stages. After pulling a goal back, Robinson’s side pushed forward in search of an equaliser, forcing Rangers into a period of sustained defending.

Despite that late pressure, Robinson acknowledged that his team lacked the cutting edge and composure that Raskin consistently displayed. “In games like this, moments and individuals matter,” he said. “We had moments, but Rangers had the individual who could stamp his authority on the match.”

For St Mirren, the defeat was a setback but not without positives. Robinson praised his players for their work rate and belief, insisting performances like this can still form part of a strong campaign. Yet he was clear that closing the gap to the league’s top sides requires learning from players of Raskin’s calibre.

“That’s the level,” Robinson added. “If you want to compete consistently, you need players who can handle pressure, who can dominate physically and mentally. Watching someone like Raskin up close shows you exactly what that looks like.”

Rangers supporters left encouraged by the performance, with many pointing to Raskin as a symbol of the team’s growing steel and confidence. After a period where consistency had been questioned, displays like this suggest the midfielder is relishing the responsibility of being a key figure.

As the season progresses, Raskin’s form could prove pivotal in Rangers’ ambitions, both domestically and beyond. For St Mirren, the challenge is to respond quickly and use the experience as motivation.

Robinson summed it up succinctly. “Sometimes you lose to quality,” he said. “Tonight, Nicolas Raskin showed real quality. You have to respect that and make sure you’re better next time.”

The defeat may sting for St Mirren, but Robinson’s words reflected a wider truth acknowledged across the Premiership. When a player combines strength, confidence and intelligence at the highest level, even opponents cannot help but be impressed.